AboutRon Wolff Expertise I am proficient in the following areas of VW Air Cooled Models from 1968-1979:
Vehicles: Super Beetle, Beetle, Thing, Karmann Ghia, Bus, Westfalia/Bus
Areas of expertise years 1968-1979
Engine Rebuild advice for all air cooled engines
VW Brake system replacement
Automatic Stickshift transmission
VW KOOL and DPD air conditioning systems (ex. thing)
Westfalia Electrical system dual battery
Westy Refridge Repair
Westy Cabinet Repair
Westy
AFC Fuel Injection system (1975 bugs) (1975 bus/Westys)
Soundproofing
General type 4 engine rebuild/technical data (i.e. 1.7 ltr, 1.8., 2.0) for buses
VW Air Cooled Beetle and Bus Paint codes
VW Distributor Compatibility Information
Westy component repair
Emission Systems
Exhaust Systems
General Electric System
Door rebuild (windows, seals, vent windows)
Body Panel Removal and general repair (non-welded)
Charging System
Convertible top Installation: Beetle
CV joints
Engine Troubleshooting
Valve Train
Non areas of expertise:
High Performance Modifications
Front end related components
Rear suspension (spring plate adjustment)
Bodywork / painting
Experience
Past/Present clients I often contribute to the westfalia users group technical boards. I have been a member for about 4 years. My usermame is 76Heatwagen
I restore vintage Volkswagens and currently own 4 of them.
Question Hey Ron,
I just purchased a 1979 VW Conv. Beetle, it was sitting idle for 7 years or so. I got a new battery and well it started but does not idle. It dies, i changed out the head temp sensor, replaced spark plugs, wires, rotor, and cap. It starts now but idles rough and a lot of smoke comes out the exhaust pipes. I also noticed that looks like black sooth comes out the exhaust. What does this mean? Thanks in advance
Answer Hey Armando,
Congratulations on your purchase.
I would suggest a couple things:
1) Drain the fuel and replace it with new.
2) If it is '79, it should be fuel injected, so replace the fuel filter under the gas tank.
3) Change the oil
4) Adjust the valves (Very Important)
5) Adjust the timing
6) Replace the belt (even if it looks new)
The soot is most likely just carbon from it sitting for so long.
These steps should make your VW road worthy and stop it from stalling out.
Best of luck, and let me know if I can help you any further.
